I grew up in California and graduated from the University of Hawaii with a degree in Drawing and Painting. I have lived in Phoenix, Arizona since that time where I have been a teacher for the past 20 years. I have taught from first grade through college. I currently teach high school art and am often inspired by my students.

My paintings are a process of exploration. The work begins with the seed of an idea, usually based on observation. The starting point could be a shady stream, rocky hillside or even the frontage road of a freeway. The light edge on a cactus needle, the texture of peeling bark, the sparkle of a curling wave all inspire me to search out methods to paint what I have observed. The way the red of the traffic light contrasts with the gray hue of the concrete is intriguing to me. The beauty of these things is what I hope my work conveys.